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Seeking Bookshelf Recommendations

Looking for some new bookshelf speakers for a second system in a small bedroom.   The room is pretty well treated with 6 broadband absorption and 9 diffuser panels. I’m running Audio Mirror Reflection 45 mono blocks with a Canary preamp. Source will most likely be a Gustard R26 as both dac and streamer. I also have a pair of Rel t5i subs and Aperion dual firing super tweeters.  
 

Soundstaging and imaging are king for me. I want the biggest most dimensional sound I can afford.  My amp pairing is really smooth so I’m not looking for anything too warm.  I’d like something that is neutral but full in the lower mids and upper bass but also extended and airy in the treble.  My current Totem Arros do the soundstaging/imaging but are a little weak for me in the lower mids and upper bass.  Also I really value clarity and resolution as long as the magic isn’t lost of course. Basically I’m looking to have my cake and eat it too. My budget is around 3k and right now tops of my list are Fritz Carreras and Kef R3 metas. Also, Joseph Pulsars would be at the very top of my wish list but I’m trying to spend less unless it’s truly worth it.  Others that are lower on the list are Nola Boxers, Totem Signature Ones, Merlin TSM MMM, and maybe even one of the smaller Thiel floor standing speakers
 

As always I’m looking forward to everyone’s thoughts and hopefully there is at least a couple great speakers I’m missing. 

brylandgoodman
chenry's avatar
chenry
98 posts
 

Amphion Argon 3s, Buchardt S400, (or A500 actives), Studio Electric M4.

audioman58's avatar
audioman58
3,858 posts
 

The Borresen x1 monitors with matching stands ,a fantastic loudspeaker

and compete with anything at 2x it’s price.retail $6600 but shop around you can 
get a pair for less .

jimmyblues
50 posts
 

If you want a really nice sounding speaker that's a bargain on the used market you might want to consider a pair of KEF Reference Series Model 101's.  They can usually be purchased in nice condition for around $500.  I've had Rogers LS3/5A's (both 15 ohm and 11 ohm) as well as Harbeth HLP3ES, and I prefer the KEF's.  

pwb6769
2 posts
 

Take a look at the mofi source point 10s.  Very easy to drive at 93 db(I believe).I have mine spaced about 20’ apart and the ss is very good, clear, defined. They have been on sale as of late. I considered the kef metas and habeth the but these were more in my price range. I took a chance and am really happy. Driven by a pair of ps audio m700 

woots's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
woots
282 posts
 

I have a pair of Sonus Faber Sonetto II's paired with a McIntosh in my family room.  This is a second system paired with B&W surrounds in the walls.  First of all, if you are looking for wide soundstage these will fit that requirement.  They also have great bass and I'm not using a sub plus the midrange and high end all match flawlessly.  I bought these due to space requirements sight unseen but recommended by my dealer and have been very impressed.  Oh, by the way, I got white to match my bookshelves and play without the grills and my wife doesn't complain (that much).

 

Good Luck and let us know how you make out.

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